WeAreTeachers Blog

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There was a time—not too long ago--when teachers were lucky to have one computer in their classroom.  Now, amazing technology is not only available, but it's affordable enough that many schools are able to purchase individualized technology—like Leapster Explorer Learning Systems, Tag Reading Systems and more—for individual student use.  Here are some of the many ways that you can utilize this type of technology in your classroom.

1. Make technology stations.  Divide your students into small groups and have them rotate between technology stations.  One group may be working together to read a book with a Tag system, while another group uses a Tag map and another uses Leapster Explorer handhelds to play games.
2. Make a learning challenge. Challenge individual students or groups to a game to see who can master a certain game or answer a certain question first using their individual technology.
3. Use individual technology as a warm-up activity.  Get those brains cranking by creating a short warm-up assignment that utilizes individual technology.
4. Let students teach other students.  Designate students as "technology experts" and have them show other kids how they can use a specific technology.
5. Use technology to differentiate instruction.  You know that every student learns differently—so use those differences to enhance their learning.  Let a student who is an active learner use technology that encourages movement, while a student who is a visual learner use technology that has visual elements.
6. Reward with technology.  Kids love technology—so reward individual students or the entire class with time using technology.  Educational positive reinforcement—talk about a win-win!
7. Use technology to supplement your lessons.  Let kids use technology when they've finished work to reinforce concepts, or if you're comfortable, let students check out technology and bring it home for additional practice.

Question:  Have more ideas?  Head to the LeapFrog Champions page to share ideas with other teachers and more!  GO!